Balustrades are perfect for installing in different places, including swimming pools, staircases, patio areas, terraces, and balconies. However, they can only transform your home decor if you choose the perfect balustrade. And of course, using high-quality staircase parts will also make a big impact in terms of adding aesthetic value to your home.
In this article, we will highlight some of the common mistakes you should avoid when installing balustrades.
1. Mismatching
Before picking your preferred balustrade, pay attention to the design of your home. It’s very crucial since the balustrade you choose should suit the style of your home.
For instance, you can’t place glass and stainless steel balustrades in traditional-style homes. You only need to know the styles that match each other before making the purchase.
Partnering with a professional balustrade company can be a great idea as they’ll help you make the right decision. They’ll also ensure you avoid choosing balustrades that don’t match with the structure of your home.
2. Not Hiring A Professional
Although most people think installing a balustrade is simple, that’s not the case. All balustrades must adhere to NCC legislation, should comply with Australian standards, and require structural certification.
Due to this, you should allow an expert to handle the fabrication, design, and installation process. The stress and expenses of DIY installations are not worth it as it is not uncommon for homeowners to place balustrades dangerously or even breaking glass panels.
Hiring an experienced professional is the best thing to do because they will execute the job well. What’s more, insurance can cover any damages that might occur during installation.
3. Choosing The Cheapest Balustrade
Many factors determine balustrades’ price, including installation, durability, safety, warranty, quality, and developmental costs. It would be best if you avoided cheaper options because they have a short warranty.
Besides, they’re likely to require high-maintenance or fail prematurely. For example, glass balustrades are customizable. So, you should set aside a budget that enables you to achieve your safety goals and desired style without spending a lot of money.
However, you should first determine the features that are essential to you. If you want pool fences, ensure they comply with state regulations.
4. Ignoring Maintenance Costs
Do you know why aluminum and glass balustrades are very common? They require low maintenance. On the other hand, timber balustrades are expensive to maintain. They also chip easily and are prone to woodworm.
Most homeowners don’t like installing timber balustrades because finding professionals that can repair them is not easy. It’s important to consider maintenance costs since no balustrade is maintenance-free.
5. Not Following Instructions
Most balustrades come with installation instructions regarding how to measure correctly and fasten, types of brackets and fasteners to use, and more. Since not all balustrades are the same, it’s essential to know the specifics before you begin installing them.
Some people also misunderstand the measurements. For example, some balustrades are measured in actual sizes and others in nominal sizes. Just read the instructions carefully, and you’ll be able to take the right measurements.
6. Failing to Consider Environmental Factors
It’s important to consider the environmental and climatic factors in your region as they differ significantly. For instance, if you live near the sea, you may need to use high-quality components resistant to corrosion and the effects of salt.
It’s also important to note that you may have to clean glass panels frequently due to salty air. Additionally, opt for aluminum if you have a traditionally styled house since the stainless steel chain may not be the right choice.
7. Only Paying Attention to Aesthetics
A beautiful design is good. However, the primary purpose of balustrade should be safety. For this reason, consider the safety elements of balustrades like fall prevention instead of focusing on how it looks.
We recommend choosing a balustrade that offers safety both for tall adults and kids. You should also select a handrail that doesn’t encourage leaving or placing objects on top unattended. Again, if you’ve pets and children, go for balustrades with small gaps.
8. Cutting Balustrades Too Short
It is significant to understand that there are particular regional requirements for balustrades’ heights. However, the problem arises when people ignore the elements that are essential for cutting balustrades. As the result, they cut it too short.
To avoid the inconvenience, make sure to measure the sweep, the top rail, the bottom rail, and the rail cap properly and then start cutting.
In most of the cases, the code requirements are 42 inches for commercial height and 36 inches height for residential. Measure accordingly.
9. Making A lot of Mess
Installing balustrades is a messy task. It may sound simple, but you need to clear up the space as soon as possible else it can damage your railing.
Apart from being unsightly, debris like metal shavings can stuck in the deck and damage its appearance. So, don’t let it render all your hard work.
10. Over Drilling
Mostly, the first balustrade installation may go wrong, but staying focused on the drilling process can help you outsmart your initial attempt. Remember that this process might be tricky for you and can destroy your posts if not handled with care. In fact, you may even end up buying new set of posts to start again.
The good news is that; it is possible to save yourself from similar accidents by gently drilling holes on the deck’s frame. In case, you over-drill by mistake, then refill the holes using wood fillers or any other fillings that have good flexibility. However, if you continue to make more faulty holes, then you may have to buy another set of posts. So, be cautious.
11. Not Asking For Help
Even if you wish to install the fence all by yourself doesn’t mean you wouldn’t need any assistance throughout the process. Make sure there is someone around you to help with things like confirming measurements, getting another tool and giving a hand during installation.
Sometimes just by looking at the instruction, you may not understand the complexity of the procedure, so it is always a practical idea to have someone around for the hour of need.
Wrap Up
We hope you now know what to avoid the next time you’ll be installing a balustrade in your home. If you need guidance or professional advice, seek help from an expert balustrade company. They’ll ensure you get value for your money and help you pick a balustrade that will transform your property’s appearance.
About the Author:
Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community.